DLA Piper commercial practice delivers comprehensive advice regarding supply chains, distribution channels, contracts, transactions, logistics, e-commerce and consumer protection. The team are particularly well versed in the automotive, chemicals, consumer goods, life sciences and finance sectors. Thilo Von Bodungen and Sylvia Ebersberger lead the practice with Ebersberger advising on commercial matters, innovation-based projects and transformation processes, while Bodungen advises companies on all stages of the value chain, focusing on national and international trade and distribution law.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Speed, passion, and flexibility, all backed by serious expertise. They deliver responsive service that actually cares about client outcomes, not just billable hours. What impresses me most: They move fast, without cutting corners on quality. You can feel their commitment, they're invested. Adaptability is standard, they tailor their approach to each client's needs. No legal jargon or surprises, just clear communication and transparent billing. A firm where clients feel like true partners. They use technology smartly but never lose the human touch that makes all the difference.'
- 'Impressive theoretical skills combined with stand-out capabilities to put theory into practice based on client needs and the nature of client operations as well as to assist with input to pragmatical risk-thinking. High proficiency also in holding together complex projects involving multiple jurisdictions and local DLA Piper office.'
- 'Thilo von Bodungen stands out as the kind of strategic legal partner we as clients hoped to find. Their approach combines three rare qualities: Empathy Meets Solutions – Thilo doesn’t just analyse legal problems; they understand the human and business stakes behind them. Their advice is rooted in practicality, not just theory. Unmatched Commitment – They are consistently all-in, whether on routine matters or high-stakes challenges. Partner-Level Engagement – Unlike firms where partners delegate heavily, Thilo remains hands-on, ensuring clients get senior expertise at every turn.'
Key clients
- BASF Catalyst Business
- BorgWarner Group
Work highlights
Provided comprehensive contractual advice for the carved-out Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions Business of BASF SE. Acted as the direct point of contact for the General Counsel EMEA – Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions in Germany, as well as the business’s contact for all operational matters related to day-to-day business activities.
Advising various entities of the BorgWarner Group in connection with co-operation projects and related agreements. The firms support includes drafting and negotiating supply and service agreements with suppliers, asserting or defending both contentious and non contentious claims arising from supply relationships, transaction-related legal advice and day-to-day guidance on the implementation and fulfilment of various commercial contracts, as well as on the applicable legal framework.
Advising Daimler Truck on a non-binding agreement with the Volvo Group, establishing a joint venture for the development of a shared software-defined vehicle platform and a dedicated truck operating system. The planned platform is intended to serve as the foundation for future software-defined commercial vehicles.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Thilo von Bodungen; Sylvia Ebersberger
Other key lawyers
Betina Fischer; Gerlad Baumgartner